ALP candidates listen to locals

PHYLLIS Codd wanted to know what the NSW ALP policy was regarding the split of GST revenue for the states.

Cherie Rawson-Harris is concerned about the lack of education and health support in rural areas and Kevin Boyd believes industrial relations is the big issue for now and the future.

The race to the March state election is, well, off and running.

ALP candidates Stuart Holmes (Oxley) and David Kennedy (Coffs Harbour) heard these and other issues at an informal forum held at the Old Butter Fac- tory in Bellingen on Friday.

"We want to hear what local people's concerns are," Mr Kennedy said.

Mr Holmes, who is the co-ordinator at the Men's Shed in Nambucca Heads, said there are some really good ideas out in the community and often they are not heard. He said industrial relations would be a key issue in his campaign and described the legislative changes as abhorrant and anti-family.